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Adelphi, Md. (Oct. 23, 2024)—������Ƶ (UMGC) has launched a Credit for Military Rank program, a new initiative designed to motivate active-duty and retired enlisted servicemembers to complete their undergraduate degrees. This innovative program awards academic credit based on experiences and skills that servicemembers gain as they rise through the ranks in the military.    

The new program expands UMGC’s longstanding alignment with American Council on Education (ACE) recommendations for accepting credit for military experiences. By recognizing the full value of military experiences and the skills attainment that goes along with being promoted through the ranks, UMGC offers military learners an accelerated path to graduation, significantly reducing the time and tuition costs required to earn a degree.  

This program positions UMGC as a leader in providing tailored, flexible options that respect the unique experiences of servicemembers. Nearly 2,000 students have benefited from the program since its launch in the fall 2024 term. The majority are enlisted servicemembers at the E-5 and E-6 levels—mostly noncommissioned officers and petty officers. The program fast-tracks academic credentials that can advance their military careers or prepare them for civilian roles, notably in areas including management, human resources and leadership.

Kris McCall, UMGC's chief transformation officer who leads efforts to develop innovative strategies that make the university more accessible to learners, said about 60 percent of UMGC students have a military background, and many—as they advance in rank—complete courses or gain experience that qualifies for academic credit. He said the program helps students avoid retaking courses that cover material they have already mastered. 

The leadership skills required to manage platoons, for example, are equivalent to the management principles taught in the classroom. The discipline, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities necessary for military service are not only essential for academic success but also valuable in the workplace.

"Our goal is to not require students to sit through classes to relearn what they already know," McCall said. "We’re awarding them credit for their experience, which speeds up their path to graduation and saves them money on tuition. It’s a win for the students, and it demonstrates that UMGC is rethinking education and valuing everything a military student brings to the table."

Under the new program, McCall said, service members can begin earning up to three academic credits for the rank of E-5; they are eligible for a total of six academic credits at the E-6 level. By the time students reach E-8, they may have accumulated up to 12 additional credits, roughly 10 percent of the total required for a bachelor’s degree.

To qualify for the program, students submit a Joint Service Transcript that documents their military training and experiences. This transcript is evaluated by a UMGC team that adheres to ACE recommendations in determining how military experience translates into academic credit. While this new program focuses on military rank, McCall noted that UMGC is also expanding its offerings to include credit awards for other forms of professional experience.

UMGC’s commitment to being a transfer-friendly institution also benefits military students by enabling them to earn degrees more quickly and more affordably.

“We’re here to help them translate their professional experiences into as much academic credit as possible,” McCall said. “Going the extra mile for our military students is what sets us apart from most schools."

About ������Ƶ

Founded more than 75 years ago to meet the higher education needs of working adults and military servicemembers, ������Ƶ (UMGC) is the largest provider of postsecondary education in Maryland. UMGC continues its global mission with online and hybrid courses, over 175 classroom and service locations worldwide, and more than 135 degrees and certificates. For more information, visit umgc.edu.